Indonesia

Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago, comprising of five main islands and a multitude of smaller archipelagos, with about 17,000 islands strung across the equator.

A rich history of kingdoms, conquests, colonialism, trade and natural disasters has bequeathed it with an exhilarating kaleidoscope of cultures and traditions, people, languages and religions, aspirations and problems, and the dramatic scenery of changing landscapes.

Unfortunately it is this very diversity of ethnic groups and religions that has put a country of such exotic natural resources to the test. Racial divides and fierce religious hostility, government corruption, uprisings, economic negligence and, more recently, terrorist attacks have been frequent blights on the Indonesian fabric of society. But it is also these diverse cultures that have given the country a splendid heritage of traditions and art, and for centuries it has been a magnet, constantly drawing thousands of people to its shores despite its turbulent nature. Its position along the Pacific 'ring of fire' contributes to its uneasiness; the country is prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

A holiday in Indonesia offers something for everyone. Sumatra has an untouched wilderness and a diversity of wildlife, highland tribes and unique architecture, wonderful resort-lined lakes and quaint hilltop towns. Java features steaming volcanoes, astonishing historical monuments, a sprawling capital city and traditional dance, music and art. The image of paradise is epitomised in Bali, an island of artistic people and elegant temples, stunning scenery, palm groves, beach resorts and diving. Further east, Komodo is the home to the world's largest lizard, the Komodo dragon.

Indonesia is a land of vigorous colour, of tensions and upheaval, but also of festivals and dancing, golden sunsets and friendly white toothy smiles.

Climate

Indonesia is hot and humid all year round, but cooler inland than along the coastal regions. The monsoon from December to March brings the heavy rains. The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to visit as some activities and road travel can be difficult during the rainy season.

Money

Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency and is divided into 100 sen. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, hotels and money changers in major tourist destinations; US dollars is the most accepted currency. Cash often yields a better exchange rate than travellers cheques, which are not always accepted. It is recommended that travellers cheques also be in US dollars. Most major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and stores catering to the tourist trade. ATMs are available in main centres. Small change is often unavailable so keep small denomination notes and coins for items like bus fares, temple donations and cool drinks.

Passport Visa

Passengers to Indonesia of most nationalities can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival, provided that: (i) they arrive at a major Indonesian airport; (ii) their passport contains at least one unused visa page for the visa-on-arrival sticker; (iii) they are holding return/onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; and (iv) they can show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in Indonesia (at least USD 1,000 or a valid credit card). The visa fee is USD 25. One visa extension, of a further 30 days, is possible, via an application made to the Immigration Office. Note that the day of arrival in Indonesia is counted as the first day of stay, and that fines will be levied against tourists who exceed their permitted period of stay. Visitors wishing to travel to the Indonesian province of Irian Jaya must obtain a special permit ("Surat Jalan") after arrival in Indonesia from the Dinas Intel Pam Pol MABAK in Jakarta, or other regional police headquarters in Biak or Jayapura. It normally takes about two days to obtain this permit. Upon arrival in Irian Jaya, visitors must report to the local police office. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Indonesia within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).
• New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Indonesia. A 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Health

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Indonesia and medical advice should be taken at least three weeks before departing. Malaria is a year round risk except in Jakarta, other large cities and the tourist resorts of Java and Bali. The dengue fever mosquito is found throughout Indonesia and visitors should be aware of a significant increase in reported cases of dengue fever throughout all the country's provinces during the rainy season. Outbreaks of chikungunya fever, also from mosquitoes, have occurred regularly in Indonesia in recent years. Visitors to Java and Sumatra are advised to ensure all polio inoculations are up to date before travel. Outbreaks of bird flu have also occurred and many people have died from the disease; Indonesia has the world's highest death toll from the virus. Travellers are not at risk but are advised to avoid close contact with caged, domestic and wild birds, and ensure that all eggs or poultry dishes are thoroughly cooked as a precaution. Outbreaks of Anthrax and leprosy occur. Travellers' diarrhoea is a major risk; visitors should only drink sealed bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat, salads and unpeeled fruit. Poor sanitation and eating contaminated food can increase the risk of cholera, typhoid and other diseases. The standard of local medical care is poor and very expensive. It is essential that you take out full medical and travel insurance covering all eventualities. A yellow fever certificate is required from those travelling from infected areas.

Embassy Consulates

• Indonesian Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 775 5200.
• Indonesian Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Republic of Ireland): +44 (0)20 7499 7661.
• Indonesian Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 724 1100.
• Indonesian Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6250 8600.
• Indonesian Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 3350.
• Indonesian Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 475 8697/8/9.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 3435 9000.
• British Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 2356 5200.
• Canadian Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 2550 7800.
• Australian Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 2550 5555.
• South African Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 574 0660.
• Irish Embassy, Singapore (also responsible for Indonesia): +65 6238 7616.
• New Zealand Embassy, Jakarta: +62 (0)21 2995 5800.